Our research group is focused on the molecular and cellular regulation of potassium channels, and their role in linking cellular metabolism to electrical activity in various tissues. We have developed a detailed understanding of the molecular basis of potassium channel function as well as clinically relevant understanding of the mechanistic basis of inherited potassium channel diseases. Our latest efforts are directed towards a more complete understanding of the molecular details, the physiological role, and the clinical relevance, of potassium channel activity, using combinations of biochemical, genetic, physiological and biophysical approaches.

Image at left: Electric transducer - Nucleotide interaction with the nucleotide binding folds (NBFs) of the sulfonylurea receptor is the essential link between cell metabolism and activation of KATP channels - and hence of cellular function.